Polyester geogrids, a specialised category of geosynthetics, are the core of applications like soil reinforcement and structural support in civil engineering. This article has deep dive details of polyester geogrids in terms of properties and their production processes, along with applications and advantages they hold in the field of civil engineering.
Polyester geogrid: Definition
Polyester geogrids are polymer-based materials with a grid-like structure and large apertures, mostly fabricated from polyethylene terephthalate [PET], known for high tensile strength and durability. These geogrids are used basically for the reinforcement of soils. By nature, they become quintessential in most construction and engineering works. StrataGrid™ by Strata Global is a high-performance soil reinforcement solution produced by knitting high-tenacity polyester yarn into dimensionally stable networks of apertures, forming a geometric grid that offers outstanding strength and stability.
Properties of polyester geogrids:
- Tensile strength: Thousands of tests have been conducted, and the results for tensile strength are typically from 85 MPa to over 200 MPa, depending on the design and manufacturing of a different polyester geogrid. StrataGrid™ has tensile strengths up to 800 kN, and are truly exceptional and ensure reliable service under the most difficult conditions.
- Modulus of elasticity: The modulus of elasticity for polyester geogrids will lie between 2.76 and 4.14 GPa, which enables it to deform elastically without permanent damage under any level of stress.
- Creep resistance: Polyester geogrids are designed to be resistant to creep, which is a time-dependent deformation caused by constant load. Accelerated creep tests show that these geogrids will retain their structural integrity over very long periods and are thus suitable for use in long-term applications in civil engineering.
- Chemical resistance: Generally, polyester is a material which has excellent resistance to a wide range of chemicals, thus improving the durability of geogrids under hostile circumstances, such as one finds in landfill applications and road construction.
- UV resistance: A protective polymer coating is treated on many polyester geogrids to enhance its resistance to ultraviolet radiation for its longevity under sunlight. Strata Global’s StrataGrid™ features a company-developed, UV-stabilised coating compound that offers enhanced durability against environmental factors.
Manufacturing process:
In the manufacturing process for polyester geogrids, there are a few steps to be followed:
- Procurement of raw material: The raw material for polyester pellets is procured. These pellets are melted and extruded into thin sheets.
- Extrusion: The molten polyester is forced through a die, and flat sheets are produced. These are cooled and coiled for further processing.
- Knitting or weaving: The polyester yarn is knitted or weaved on a grid pattern. This process intrinsically binds the yarns to make a strong structure that is capable of withstanding big loads.
- Coating: A coating made from polymer, applied after grid formation, protects the polyester geogrid from environmental elements. This coating is cured by heat for strength.
- Quality control: The finished products are subjected to numerous tests for tensile strength, elongation, and ocular checking to meet the requirements of the various industries, following which they are packed and dispatched.
Applications of Polyester Geogrids
The applications of polyester geogrids are related to all types of civil engineering works, such as:
- Road construction: They are generally put in sub-base applications in paved and unpaved roads, which can reduce asphalt thickness and distribute loads more effectively.
- Soil stabilisation: Geogrids provide structural integrity to slopes, embankments, and retaining walls by locking into the particles of soil, thus preventing erosion.
- Erosion control: Polyester geogrids offer a framework for vegetation growth in areas susceptible to soil erosion, thereby helping to bind the soil together.
- Rehabilitation of pavements: Increasingly, polyester geogrids are applied in rehabilitation works on already existing pavement structures, offering additional support to the latter and eventually extending the life of the roadways.
- Landfill liners: They can be used for reinforcing landfill applications in liner systems, guaranteeing stability and preventing contamination. For example, Strata Global’s StrataGrid™ delivers strength and durability in such applications.
Advantages of Using Polyester Geogrids
Adoption of polyester geogrids in civil engineering projects can benefit in a number of ways:
- Cost-effectiveness: Polyester geogrids reduce thickness in pavement structures and improve load distribution, which tends to induce a noteworthy economical cost saving in materials and construction expenses.
- Environmental safety: Made up with recyclable materials, the polyester geogrids contribute to sustainable construction.
- High performance: High tensile strength and durability of the polyester geogrids are used for improved performance and durability of a civil engineering structure. StrataGrid™ by Strata Global assures the structure life to be over 100 years, making them very reliable for engineers.
- Versatility: Due to their adaptability in various applications, they find their usage in almost every engineering project, starting from roads to retaining walls, and many more.
Polyester geogrids form a vital part of modern civil engineering in view of providing the necessary reinforcement to soils and structures. Only with the backing of such unique properties, added to the latest and most advanced techniques in their production, can engineers tackle difficult problems in soils. Interest in polyester geogrids will certainly increase with global infrastructure development. For all innovative geosynthetic solutions that will enhance durability and performance of your projects, look directly to Strata Global through its StrataGrid™ and other advanced products. Contact Strata Global today to find out how their geogrids can meet your engineering needs.